RTA to Pilot “Sky Line” in 2018

(Published: 04-03-2017)

CHICAGO – In a region infamous for traffic congestion, with infrastructure in dire need of capital investment, the RTA is proud to announce a pilot project that will “raise” expectations of public transportation in our region.

Later this year, the RTA will begin working with several local aviation services to develop the “Sky Line,” an airborne public transportation service. We have identified six sites—one in each county in the region--as “take off” points for small aircraft, with direct service to four Loop office buildings equipped with landing pads.

“The idea is not a new one, but it’s the first to be tried in public transportation in the country,” said Leanne Redden, RTA Executive Director. “Last year Airbus formed a division called Urban Air Mobility to investigate ideas such as a using a vehicle to transport individuals or a helicopter-style vehicle that can carry multiple riders. When we heard about it, we knew our region was a perfect one to pilot this public-private partnership.”

We are in discussions with various other partners as well who are working on "vertical take-off and landing" (VTOL) technology that would allow vehicles to pick up passengers in busy urban areas. We hope to start providing this service in our region as soon as next year.

The RTA’s Sky Line will be reservation-only during the pilot and open only to those 18 and older. For more information, text Skyline Info to 312-APRILFOOLS.